Veterinary Technology

Program Overview

It’s more than a love of animals that inspires people to become veterinary technologists
– it’s also a keen interest in science and medicine. If you’re self-motivated and
want to be part of a team working to make animals’ lives better, veterinary technology
could be a great career fit. Vet techs work in vet clinics, livestock operations,
animal shelters, zoos, game farms, diagnostic labs and veterinary teaching hospitals.

4th Semester at Vet College

Your final semester takes place at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM)
on the University of Saskatchewan campus. It’s a chance to learn from leading vet
techs and veterinarians.

Real-World Training

In first year, you’ll job-shadow vet techs to get a taste of the profession. In second
year, you’ll participate in two practicums. You’ll spend five weeks in a small animal
veterinary practice and five weeks in a mixed/large animal practice or research facility.

Diploma to Degree

Use your Veterinary Technology diploma as a stepping stone to a degree in the U of
S College of Agriculture and Bioresources or Athabasca University in Alberta.

Nationally Accredited

Our Veterinary Technology program is accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical
Association. This qualifies you to write the national certification exam. You need
to pass the exam and register in the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists
(SAVT) to work as a Registered Veterinary Technologist in Saskatchewan.

Your Career

As a vet tech, your skills are in demand at small clinics, large animal practices,
veterinary hospitals, livestock operations, animal shelters, diagnostic labs, research
facilities, zoos and game farms. There are jobs with government agencies and in sales.
Or use your skills as the owner/operator of your own kennel or training facility.

Note

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

Program Details

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

One year post-secondary studies including a post-secondary level English and math
(or a minimum of 70% in the mathematics requirement), plus a minimum of 70% in Biology
30 and Chemistry 30

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Transfer Credit

Many Saskatchewan Polytechnic students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

admission eligibility to a two-year post-diploma Bachelor's degree in Agricultural
Studies at the University of Lethbridge (contact the Dean's office, Faculty of Arts
and Science, University of Lethbridge at 403-380-1813)

Courses

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANIM 182

Care and Management of Laboratory Animals

2

You will study the lecture information online. The course content includes animal production, care and management. Laboratory experiences will allow you to practice handling and restraint in small laboratory animal species.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 32.0Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

APHY 190

Anatomy and Physiology 1

6

You will learn basic applied comparative anatomy and physiology of domestic animals. You will study the relationship between structure and function beginning at the cellular level through to organ systems. Organ systems include the skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The lab will provide hands-on study of important physiological principles and anatomical structures through models and the dissection of preserved specimens.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Corequisites(s): VETR 182, VETR 183Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

CHEM 185

General Chemistry

5

You will be introduced to the fundamentals of chemical theory needed for health professionals. You will develop basic laboratory skills and learn how to work safely in laboratory settings.Credit Units: 5Course Hours: 75.0Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

You will review basic mathematical concepts such as ratio, proportion, fractions, decimals, percents and equations. You will also receive an introduction to logarithmic and exponential functions and graphing. Your studies will focus on units of measurement and dilution and solution calculations.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 48.0Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

VETR 182

Veterinary Nursing Skills

2

You will practice common nursing skills used in veterinary clinics. These skills will be utilized during vaccination clinics and first and second year clinical rotations.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 27.0Corequisites(s): APHY 190, VETR 183Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

VETR 183

Introduction to Veterinary Technology

3

You will be exposed to the operation of veterinary practices through assigned rotations at local veterinary clinics during the week and at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine on Saturdays.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 50.0Corequisites(s): APHY 190, VETR 182Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 184

Veterinary Tours 1

1

You will tour various animal production and research facilities. You will report on variations in housing, health management, feeding and breeding options.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 15.0Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 186

Human Animal Bond, Ethics and the Law

2

You will be introduced to aspects of the human-animal bond (such as grief counselling) and the legislation that applies to veterinary technology. You will learn how to apply ethics in your relationships with co-workers and clients. You will also learn the importance of medical records, record keeping and legislation.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 24.0Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 187

Animal Behaviour

2

You will be introduced to the study of domesticated animal behaviour and behaviour modifications.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 24.0Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 188

Veterinary Medical Terminology

1

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms from which veterinary medical terms are derived, as well as the correct way to use medical abbreviations. You will also learn how to translate veterinary medical terminology for use with clients.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 17.0Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANIM 282

Care and Management of Domestic Animals

2

You will focus on basic information on nutrition, housing, behaviour, breed characteristics and diseases common to large domestic animal and poultry species. You will also receive hands-on experience with handling, restraining, hoof care and trimming, grooming, injection sites and venipuncture, aging, care of the newborn and artificial insemination techniques.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 36.0Prerequisites(s): ANIM 182Equivalent Course(s): ANIM 181Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

APHY 280

Anatomy and Physiology 2

4

Your studies will focus on the structure and function of the endocrine, urinary and reproductive systems. The lab will provide hands-on learning of important physiological principles and anatomical structures through models and the dissection of preserved specimens.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 54.0Prerequisites(s): APHY 190Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

APHY 281

Anatomy and Physiology 3

4

Your studies will focus on the structure and function of blood and the lymphatic system, the nervous system and sensory organs, as well as the integument of domestic animals. You will also receive a brief introduction to avian, amphibian and reptilian anatomy and physiology. The lab will provide hands-on study of important physiological principles and anatomical structures through models and dissection of preserved specimens.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 58.0Prerequisites(s): APHY 280Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

CHEM 190

Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry

3

The course provides an introduction to organic compounds and biochemical pathways important in understanding the physiology of health, nutrition and chemical reactions that occur in the body processes.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 48.0Prerequisites(s): CHEM 185Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

MICR 186

Clinical Microbiology

6

You will receive an introduction to the clinical aspects of microbiology as it pertains to animal health. You will study laboratory methods of cultivation and characteristics of bacteria, control of microorganisms, commonly-encountered bacterial pathogens of animals and their differentiation from normal flora. You will receive an introduction to microbial taxonomy and nomenclature, mycology and other miscellaneous pathogens. You will also learn how to safely collect, store and ship samples. The laboratory section will introduce you to basic procedures performed in clinical settings.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

RDGR 183

Radiography

4

The course focuses on information pertinent to veterinary radiography. You will receive instruction and experience in radiation safety, positioning patients, radiographic techniques, film identification, darkroom procedures, developing and loading film, and evaluating radiographs for diagnostic acceptability and troubleshooting techniques. You will learn reasons for the uses and types of film, cassettes and intensifying screens, and mandatory use of film monitoring service (safety). You will be expected to keep the equipment operable and clean, and recognize malfunctions.Credit Units: 4Course Hours: 64.0Prerequisites(s): APHY 190, VETR 182Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

STAT 285

Introductory Statistics

2

You will be introduced to basic statistical methods and the use of calculators and computers in solving statistical problems. Statistical applications relevant to the Veterinary Technology Program will be emphasized.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 32.0Prerequisites(s): COMP 172Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

This course is a comprehensive study of the components of dental care in small animals and horses. You will develop skills in oral examination, disease recognition, care and use of dental equipment and home dental care. You will also perform routine dental prophylaxis and dental radiography on models and cadavers.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 30.0Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 287

Applied Veterinary Technology

3

Building on the knowledge acquired in Introduction to Veterinary Technology, VETR 183, you will develop your skills by participating in assigned duties at local veterinary practices during the week and at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine on Saturdays.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 44.0Prerequisites(s): VETR 182, VETR 183, APHY 190Corequisites(s): APHY 280, APHY 281, VETR 279Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 288

Veterinary Tours 2

1

Building on the skills you developed in Veterinary Tours 1, VETR 184, you will participate in tours associated with the animal industry.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 15.0Prerequisites(s): VETR 184Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 291

Veterinary Information Systems

1

You will be introduced to a veterinary software package. You will learn how to input and manage clients and patients in a veterinary database package.Credit Units: 1Course Hours: 16.0Prerequisites(s): VETR 183Corequisites(s): VETR 287Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

You will learn the fundamental concepts of accounting and the skills to track inventory, cash flow, and customer accounts in a veterinary practice. The latter half of the course will concentrate on electronic accounting using an accounting software package.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 30.0Prerequisites(s): STAT 285Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

You will learn the basic skills of oral and interpersonal communication, emphasizing the role of the veterinary technologist. Positive interpersonal interactions, customer service and teamwork will be stressed. Students also learn about the job search process, which includes developing a resume and letter of application.Credit Units: 3Course Hours: 48.0Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

Your studies will focus on the various aspects of the immune system along with clinical tests and their interpretations. You will explore methods of stimulating the immune response and some of the common immune-mediated diseases.Credit Units: 2Course Hours: 28.0Prerequisites(s): APHY 281, VETR 279Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

PRST 280

Animal Parasitology

6

You will study the helminth, protozoan, and arthropod parasites that affect animals and learn which parasites are important in North America. Your studies will focus on diagnostic features, life cycles, pathogenesis, control and zoonotic potential. You will learn to perform fecal exams and to identify various parasite life cycle stages during laboratory exercises.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Prerequisites(s): MICR 186, VETR 279Corequisites(s): ANES 279, CHEM 280, HEMA 281, HEMA 282, SEM 281, VETR 290Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

Building on the principles learned in Introduction to Anesthetic Practices, ANES 281, you will develop anesthetic protocols for small and large animal species undergoing various surgical procedures. You will apply modifications of protocol based on patient condition and health status. You will be responsible for the care, preparation and post surgical care of cases assigned to you. You will also learn procedures, and protocols in critical care in order to participate in the intensive care unit and perform emergency triage.Credit Units: 6Course Hours: 90.0Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, BKPG 280, CHEM 280, COMM 287, HEMA 282, IMMU 281, PRST 280, SEM 281, VETR 290Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 289Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

Year 2 - Semester 4 - You will take these courses at the University of Saskatchewan's
Western College of Veterinary Medicine. You must successfully complete all courses
in Semesters 1 to 3 before enrolling in Semester 4. Semester 4 courses cannot be taken
on a partial load basis.

Scholarships

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 26,000 distinct students through applied learning opportunities at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.